There are a lot of different trekking poles on the market these days. How do you know which one is best for you? In this blog post, we will review the 7 best trekking poles on the market in 2022. We will talk about each pole’s weight, shaft material, grip, max length, and type of poles. We will also discuss the pros and cons of each pole so that you can decide which one is best for you!
In this post, we are going to talk about these trekking poles:
- best overall: Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
- best budget trekking poles: Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
- best carbon fiber: Leki Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
- most durable: Moltem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles
- best lightweight: REI Co-op Flash Carbon Trekking Poles
- best ultralight poles: Gossamer Gear Lt5 Trekking Poles
- best folding: MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon
- best shock-absorbing: Foxelli Trekking Poles
What Are The Best 8 Trekking Poles?
Sooo, let us stop waiting and jump into our first review!
Best Trekking Pole Overall
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z are the best poles on the market. It is made with durable carbon fibers and has comfortable cork grips. The pole is also very lightweight, weighing in at only 12 ounces per pair. It has a max length of 54 inches and can be adjusted to fit any height. This pole also has a shock-absorbing system that will help protect your joints on long hikes. This trekking pole retails for around $159.99.
The Black Diamond Distance Z poles are the greatest on the market, but there are some drawbacks. First, they are quite expensive. Second, they are not as durable as some of the other options on this list. Third, they are not the best choice for ultralight backpacking trips. Fourth, they are not as shock-absorbing as some of the other options on this list. But overall, these poles rock everything!
Summary
Weight per pair: 12 ounces
Shaft material: Carbon fibers
Grip: Diamond trail ergo cork
Max length: 54 inches
Type of poles: Adjustable poles
Price: around $159.99
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Durable carbon fibers shaft
- Comfortable cork grip
- Shock-absorbing system
Cons:
- Expensive
Best Trekking Poles on A Budget
If you are looking for the most affordable hiking poles, the Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are a very great option for you! These poles are made of 100% carbon fibers, which makes them both strong and lightweight. They have an aluminum alloy adjustment system that is easy to use, and they also have comfortable EVA foam grips. The best part about these poles is that they are very affordable! You can buy them online for $69.99!
The poles are some of the best on the market in terms of affordable, but there are a few downsides. Firstly, they are not the most durable poles and have been known to snap if used on very rocky or uneven terrain. Secondly, they are not the lightest trekking poles available, weighing in at just over two pounds per pair. However, for the average hiker or backpacker, these downsides should not be a deal-breaker, as the Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are still an excellent option overall.
Summary
Weight per pair: 12.0 ounces
Shaft material: Carbon fibers
Grip: EVA foam
Max length: 53 inches
Type of poles: Shock-absorbing
Price: $69.99
Pros:
- Lightweight and strong
- Comfortable EVA foam grips
- Very affordable
Cons:
- not so durable than other poles
Best Carbon Fiber Poles
The Leki Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are some of the best carbon fiber poles on the market. These poles are made with 100% carbon fibers, which makes them extremely lightweight and durable. These poles also have a great grip and are very comfortable to hold. These poles are also very affordable, making them a great option for budget-minded shoppers. These trekking poles are priced at $200.
The leki poles are popular for their lightweight and they are easy to carry around. However, they are not as durable as some of the other poles on the market and can break easily if not used carefully. Additionally, they are one of the more expensive poles available. Despite these drawbacks, these poles are still a great option for those looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use hiking pole.
Summary
Weight per pair: 0.85 lbs
Shaft material: 100% carbon fibers
Grip: comfortable
Max length: 54 inches
Type of poles: collapsible
Price: $200
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Easy to carry
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Not as durable as some other trekking poles
- More expensive than some other options
Most Durable Trekking Poles
If you’re looking for a pair of trekking poles that will withstand just about anything, then you’ll want to check out the Moltem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles. Made of aircraft-grade aluminum, these poles are designed to be as durable as possible. That means they’re great for use on any terrain, including rocky or icy trails. These trekking poles cost around $59.99, making them a great budget-friendly option!
The Moltem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles also have a comfortable grip and can be adjusted to fit any height. Plus, they come with a carrying case so you can easily take them with you on your next hike.
The Moltem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles have a few drawbacks. One is that they are not very adjustable, so you may have to buy different sizes for different people in your group. Another is that they are not very comfortable to grip, so your hands may get tired quickly if you are using them for a long time. Finally, they are not very lightweight, so they may be a bit cumbersome to carry on longer hikes. However, these poles are still a good option for shorter hikes or if you don’t mind carrying a bit more weight. Overall, the Moltem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles are a good option for trekking, but they have some drawbacks that you should be aware of.
Summary: Moltem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles
Weight per pair: 17.64 ounces
Shaft material: Aircraft-grade aluminum
Grip: Comfortable foam grip
Max length: 54 inches
Type of poles: Adjustable
Price: $59.99
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable grip
- Adjustable to fit any height
- Affordable
- Comes with carrying case
Cons:
- Not lightweight
Best Lightweight Trekking Poles
When it comes to backpacking, lightweight is the way to go. The REI Co-op Flash Carbon Trekking Poles are the best lightweight trekking poles on the market. Made from carbon fibers, these poles are strong and lightweight. They also have a cork grip that is comfortable to hold onto for long periods of time. The poles come in a variety of sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs. They also have a shock-absorbing system that helps reduce impact on your joints. The REI Co-op Flash Carbon Trekking Poles are the best trekking poles for anyone looking for a lightweight option. They retail for $139.99.
REI Co-op Flash Carbon Trekking Poles are the best lightweight trekking poles on the market, but they do have a few drawbacks. One is that they don’t have the best grips, so if you’re using them on a long hike or in difficult terrain, your hands might get tired more quickly. Additionally, they’re not the most durable trekking poles, so if you’re planning on using them regularly, you might want to consider a different option. Finally, they’re also on the expensive side, so if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you might want to look elsewhere. Overall, though, the REI Co-op Flash Carbon Trekking Poles are still a great choice for ultralight trekking and are a good option for those who are willing to pay a bit more for quality.
Summary: REI Co-op Flash Carbon Trekking Poles
Weight per pair: 12.56 ounces
Shaft material: Carbon fibers
Grip: Cork
Maximum length: 54 inches
Type of poles: Lightweight
Price: $139.99
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Strong
- Comfortable grip
- Shock-absorbing system
- Available in a variety of sizes
Cons:
- Grips might not be the best
- Not the most durable
- Expensive
Best Ultralight Trekking Poles
If you’re looking for the lightest poles, the Gossamer Gear Lt5 Trekking Poles are perfect for you! These poles weigh in at just 8.8 ounces per pair, making them the lightest on the market. But despite their ultralight weight, they’re still made with durable materials like aluminum and carbon fiber. They are retailed at $195.99.
The LtGrip handles are comfortable to hold, even for long periods of time, and the poles can be adjusted to fit a wide range of heights. The pole tips are made of tungsten carbide, which is one of the hardest materials on the market, so you can rest assured that they’ll last through all your adventures.
There are a few things to keep in mind with these poles, though. First, because they’re so lightweight, they may not be as durable as some of the other options on this list. Second, they don’t have any shock absorption, so if you’re looking for that feature, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Overall, the Gossamer Gear LtGrip Trekking Poles are a great option for ultralight backpackers or anyone looking for a durable, ultra lightweight pair of trekking poles.
Summary: Gossamer Gear Lt5 Trekking Poles
Weight per pair: 8.8 ounces
Shaft Material: Carbon Fiber
Grip Material: Trail ergo cork poles
Maximum Length: 51 inches
Type: Telescoping
Price: $195.99
Pros:
- Ultra lightweight
- Durable materials
- Comfortable grip
- adjustable to fit a wide range of heights
Cons:
- May not be as durable as some of the other options
- No shock absorption
Best Folding Trekking Poles
If you’re looking for the best foldable trekking poles, you may fall in love with the MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon. These poles are made of 100% carbon fiber, making them incredibly lightweight at only 1 lb. 1 oz. per pair. They have a comfortable foam grip with adjustable wrist straps, and they come with carbide tips for added durability.
The best part about the MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon poles is that they can be adjusted to fit a wide range of heights, from 26″ all the way up to 54″. They’re also very easy to use, thanks to the DynaLock system which allows you to quickly and easily adjust the length of the poles.
There are also a few drawbacks to keep in mind with the MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon poles. First, they’re not the cheapest option on the market, retailing at around $200. Additionally, some reviewers have found that the tips of the poles can wear down relatively quickly. But overall, the MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon poles are a great option for those who are looking for a high-quality, lightweight, and adjustable pair of trekking poles.
Summary: MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon
Weight per pair: 1 lb. 1 oz.
Shaft Material: 100% carbon fiber
Grip: Foam with adjustable wrist strap
Maximum Length: 54 inches
Type: Folding
Price: $200
Pros:
- Lightweight
- comfortable foam grip
- Adjustable to fit a wide range of heights
- Quick and easy to use
Cons:
- Expensive
- Tips can wear down quickly
Best Shock-Absorbing Trekking Poles
If you’re looking for the best shock-absorbable trekking poles, look no further than the Foxelli Trekking Poles. Made with aircraft-grade aluminum, these poles are designed to absorb shocks and reduce impact on your joints while you’re out on the trail. Additionally, they feature an ergonomic grip and adjustable straps that make them comfortable to use for long periods of time. And at just $39.99, they’re a great value for the money.
The Foxelli Trekking Poles have a few drawbacks. First, they are not the most durable trekking poles on the market. Second, they are not the best folding trekking poles. However, they are still a good option for trekking poles with shock absorbtion. They are a good choice for people who want a good pair of trekking poles on a budget.
Summary: Foxelli Trekking Poles
Weight per pair: under 20 oz.
Shaft material: aircraft-grade aluminum
Grip: ergonomic cork grips
Maximum length: 52 inches
Type of poles: shock-absorbing
Price: $39.99
Pros:
- Made with aircraft-grade aluminum
- Absorb shocks and reduce impact on your joints
- Ergonomic grip
- Adjustable straps
Cons:
- Not the most durable trekking poles on the market
- Not the best folding trekking poles
Final Words
You’ve finally arrived at the end, active hiking lovers! Do you find your favorite high quality trekking poles?
Not yet? What are you waiting for? Stop wait and buy one of the best value trekking poles! You can also look at this post to learn more about hiking sandals: best hiking sandals for women!
Let us know in the comments below, which one is your favorite!
Buying Guide: What Should I Look Out Before Buying Trekking Poles?
Let us do a little buyer’s guide for you! In this tiny buying advice we are going to talk about the following buying factors: pole type, shaft materials, locking mechanisms, grip construction, weight, packed size, and durability.
Trekking Pole Type
There are many different types of trekking poles on the market, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. In this section, we’ll go over the most popular types of trekking poles and what sets them apart.
The most common type of pole is the telescoping pole. Telescoping hiking poles are made of two or more sections that can be extended and locked into place. They’re very adjustable, which makes them great for use on uneven terrain. However, they’re also relatively heavy and can be difficult to carry when not in use.
Another popular type of trekking pole is the fixed-length pole. Fixed-length trekking poles are just that – they’re one solid piece with no telescoping sections. They’re much lighter than telescoping hike poles, but they’re not as adjustable. This makes them best suited for use on relatively even terrain.
There are also a few less common types of trekking poles, such as the folding pole. Folding poles are similar to telescoping poles in that they’re made of two or more sections. However, the sections of a folding pole can be folded up for easy storage and transport. Folding poles are usually a bit heavier than telescoping poles, but they’re still quite portable.
Finally, there are shock-absorbing trekking poles. These poles have special shock-absorbing mechanisms that help to reduce the impact of your steps on your joints. They’re best suited for use on rough terrain, but they can be quite heavy and expensive.
Now that you know the different types of trekking poles, you can decide which type is best for you.
Shaft Materials (Carbon Fiber, Aluminum Poles and Fiberglass)
The shaft material of a trekking pole is extremely important because it will determine the strength and durability of the pole. The most common materials used for trekking poles are aluminum, carbon fiber, and fiberglass.
Aluminum shaft is the most common material used for trekking poles because it is strong and lightweight. Carbon fiber is also a popular choice because it is even lighter than aluminum and is very strong. Fiberglass is not as strong as the other two options but is the least expensive option.
When choosing a trekking pole, it is important to consider the type of terrain you will be using it on. If you are planning on doing a lot of off-trail hiking, then you will want to choose a pole that is made of a stronger material such as carbon fiber or fiberglass. If you are mostly going to be hiking on trails, then aluminum will be a good choice.
Locking Mechanisms
One of the most important aspects of a trekking pole is the locking mechanism. There are a few different types of locking mechanisms, and each has its own pros and cons.
Twist locks are the most common type of locking mechanism. They’re easy to use and they’re very secure. The downside of twist locks is that they can be difficult to adjust if you’re wearing gloves.
Lever locks are another type of locking mechanism. They’re a bit more difficult to use than twist locks, but they’re much easier to adjust if you’re wearing gloves. The downside of lever locks is that they’re not as secure as twist locks.
Push button locks are the most difficult type of locking mechanism to use, but they’re the easiest to adjust if you’re wearing gloves. The downside of push button locks is that they’re not as secure as twist locks or lever locks.
No matter which type of locking mechanism you choose, make sure that it’s secure and that it’s easy for you to adjust. Trekking poles with poorly designed locking mechanisms can be very dangerous.
When you’re choosing a trekking pole, make sure to pay attention to the locking mechanism. It’s one of the most important aspects of the pole.
Grip Construction
The construction of the grip is important for two main reasons. First, it needs to be comfortable for you to hold onto for long periods of time. Second, it needs to be durable enough to withstand the elements and your own body weight.
There are a few different materials that are commonly used for trekking pole grips. The most common is cork, which is both comfortable and durable. Rubber is another popular choice, as it is also comfortable and provides a good grip. Foam is another option, but it is not as durable as cork or rubber.
When it comes to comfort, cork is the clear winner. It is soft and gentle on the hands, even when you are sweating. Rubber can also be comfortable, but it can get slippery when wet. Foam is the least comfortable option, as it is not as soft and can be abrasive.
When it comes to durability, cork and rubber are the best choices. They can both withstand a lot of wear and tear, and they are not likely to break down over time. Foam is the least durable option, as it can easily be damaged by sharp objects or heavy use.
If you are looking for the best of both worlds, cork is the way to go. It is comfortable and durable, and it will last you for many years of use. If you are on a budget, rubber is a good choice. It is not as comfortable as cork, but it is still durable and will provide you with a good grip. Foam is the best choice if you are looking for a light weight option that is still comfortable and provides a good grip. Whichever material you choose, make sure that it is comfortable for you to hold onto for long periods of time and that it is durable enough to withstand the elements and your own body weight.
Pole Weight
The pole weight is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing trekking poles. The lighter the pole, the easier it is to carry and the less fatigue you will experience on your hike. However, lighter poles are also more expensive and may not be as durable as heavier poles.
There are a few different materials that trekking poles are made from. The most common are aluminum, carbon fiber, and titanium. Aluminum is the heaviest material, but it is also the most affordable. Carbon fiber is lighter than aluminum but more expensive. Titanium is the lightest material but also the most expensive.
When deciding on the best trekking poles for you, consider your budget and the type of terrain you will be hiking on. If you are hiking on rugged terrain, you may want to choose a heavier pole for more stability. If you are looking for a lighter pole to save on weight, carbon fiber or titanium may be the best option for you.
No matter what material you choose, make sure that your trekking poles are durable and can withstand the elements. Look for poles with reinforced tips and comfortable grips. And always test your poles before heading out on a hike to make sure they are the right fit for you.
Packed Size (Pole Length)
The packed size of a trekking pole is important for two reasons: first, because it affects how much space the poles take up in your backpack, and second, because it affects how much weight the poles add to your load.
Trekking poles that can collapse or fold down to a smaller size will be more convenient to carry and will save you space in your pack. Poles that are made of lighter materials will also be easier to carry, so consider both factors when deciding which trekking poles to buy.
In general, the best trekking poles are the ones that strike a balance between being lightweight and durable, while also being affordable and being compact trekking poles.
Durability
Trekking poles take a lot of abuse. They get banged around, scraped on rocks, and are constantly exposed to the elements. That’s why it’s important to choose a pair of trekking poles that are built to last.
When you’re shopping for trekking poles, look for poles made from durable materials like aluminum or carbon fiber. These materials can withstand a lot of abuse and will still perform well year after year.
